Arsenal could challenge Newcastle to sign ‘world class’ 26-year-old, they have an advantage

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Newcastle United and Arsenal went to battle at St James’ Park on November 4th, and now they could go head-to-head in the January transfer market.

The Magpies are interested in signing a centre-midfielder, as they continue to deal with the absence of Sandro Tonali. He is banned until August 2024 for betting.

That has led to Newcastle looking at a potential deal for Ruben Neves. Eddie Howe’s side have considered signing the 26-year-old on loan, but that could prove to be an issue.

Neves plays for Al Hilal in Saudi Arabia, who, like Newcastle, are owned by PIF. That could mean the Magpies are not able to loan Neves, with Premier League clubs set to vote on a temporary ban on clubs loaning players to and from other clubs with the same owners.

It feels like a direct attempt to stop Newcastle from bringing in a player of Neves’ calibre, with the midfielder previously being described as ‘world class‘.

He is certainly an immense talent, and someone who another Premier League club is taking a look at.

Arsenal join Newcastle in wanting to sign Ruben Neves

According to 90min, Arsenal are interested in Ruben Neves and have been made aware that he could be available in January.

Like Newcastle, they are also looking to sign a midfielder at the start of 2024 due to the ongoing situation involving Thomas Partey. He is currently out of action due to injury, but has been linked with a move away from the Emirates Stadium.

That could lead to Arsenal swooping in for Neves, who is eager to return to the Premier League having failed to settle in Saudi Arabia.

And the Gunners could be in luck, as they would have a clear advantage over Newcastle if the two clubs go head-to-head over Neves.

That is because, unlike Newcastle, there would be no issues in Mikel Arteta’s side making a loan move for the Portugal international. That is what makes this upcoming Premier League vote all the more frustrating, as it is clearly designed to make things more difficult for the Magpies.